Chemical vs. Physical Sunscreens
It’s that time of year, the sun is shining, you’re glowing, margarita in hand and… I’m worrying about your skin. I can’t help it, it’s my job! And anyone that knows us knows it’s not just a job, but a passion. So let’s talk about protecting that gorgeous Canvas of yours so you can get back to what you do best, enjoying the summer!
Taking good care of your Canvas doesn't stop at traditional skincare products, your skin is your largest organ after all and everything you put on it (or don't put on it in terms of sun protection!) will have an impact on it's overall health and appearance. Just like make-up, choosing sun protection that works with your skincare routine will keep you safe and glowy for many years to come.
One thing that many people don’t realize is that sunscreens are categorized into to major types: physical, and chemical sunscreens. A physical sunscreen uses mineral ingredients like zinc to create a physical barrier that blocks UV rays protecting your skin from the sun, which is why they’re often referred to as sun “block”. Because physical sunscreens sit on tp of your skin (as opposed to absorbing) they can be a better option for people with sensitive, or blemish prone skin, and for children. Chemical sunscreen works like a sponge, penetrating the dermis and absorbing harmful rays before they can penetrate and cause damage. Chemical sunscreens can feel much lighter on the skin and spread easier, however the ingredients in chemical sunscreens may cause more irritation to sensitive or blemish prone skin due to the combination of ingredients. So, which to choose? That totally depends on your skin type! Both physical and chemical sunscreens do the job when it comes to protecting your skin and finding the right one for you will help ensure you use it regularly and keep that canvas protected.
How can you tell if a sunscreen is chemical or physical? Check the ingredients! Physical sunscreens will have either zinc oxide, or titanium oxide. If you don’t see one of these minerals in the ingredient list, its pretty safe to say you’re looking at a chemical sunscreen.
Shop our carefully curated selections of sunscreens right here!
